There is a common belief among health-bloggers and nutritionists that certain foods are more likely to aggravate skin conditions like acne and eczema, than others.

And while there is a lack of quality scientific research behind this theory, it’s one that’s not hard to believe as our skin essentially is the body’s largest organ in need of various nutrients in order to continually renew itself.

You’ve probably seen some health and beauty bloggers suggest that reducing their daily dairy intake and opting for a no-dairy protein powder has resulted in improvements in their skin.

However, studies also suggest that low-fat dairy has a greater impact on our skin than full fat.

Low-fat dairy is said to have a greater impact on our skin than full-fat dairy. Source: Getty

“There are various hypotheses about why — it might be that the hormones cows are given are having an impact that is only apparent when you remove some of the fat,” says dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto. “But nobody really knows for sure.”

Typically eating chocolate has often been associated with increased acne levels however there is no strong evidence that this is the case.

Rather the idea that chocolate is bad for your skin stems from the concept that refined sugar content that is the problem, rather than the chocolate element itself.

“There is some evidence that refined sugar can potentially contribute to acne,” says Dr Anjali

Despite significant scientific research, there is a strong belief that diet is linked to skin conditions like acne. Source: Getty

However, Dr Anjali advises against cutting out sugar entirely nor would she recommend cutting out entire food groups, such as meat, dairy or gluten, without advice from a dietitian.

“There isn’t a single diet that’s ‘good for skin’. If a diet is good for your general health, it’s good for skin,” she believes as a general rule of thumb.